USPS TO DO VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS

Members of USPS^® are now conducting Vessel Safety Checks for recreational boaters. On 29 January 2000, USPS Chief Commander Arthur H. Farr signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGAUX) to participate in the Vessel Safety Check Program (VSCP).

Signing of Vessel Safety Check Agreement

Signing ceremony at the 2000 Annual Meeting in Orlando. Left to right: Commodore Joseph Norman, USCGAUX; Chief Commander Arthur Farr, N; Rear Admiral James Hull, Commander of the USCG Ninth District; and P/D/C Luis Ojeda, Chairman of the USPS VSC Committee.

The Vessel Safety Check Program, formerly known as Courtesy Marine Examinations (CME's) has been part of the mission of the Auxiliary since 1947. However, over the last few years the number of annual exams performed has fallen from 300,000 to 140,000. A recent re-engineering study of the CME and MDV (Marine Dealer Visitation) Programs arrived at two major conclusions: 1. the programs are important and should be expanded and 2. the Auxiliary cannot do it alone and should develop partners.

In 1999, the Auxiliary signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United States Coast Guard that put the USCGAUX in charge of overall operation and administration of the Vessel Safety Check Program. It also allowed for the expansion of the program to other organizations. The Auxiliary turned to the United States Power Squadrons^® as a logical partner.

Founded in 1914, USPS is the world's oldest, largest non-profit boating education organization. Its 50,000 plus members are dedicated to boating safety and education. Many squadron members are also members of the Auxiliary and have already received the necessary training to conduct Vessel Safety Checks. USPS is currently gearing up to provide that instruction for the rest of its membership.

The focus of this joint effort is not to split up the work but to expand the program. The goal set by the re-engineering study was to examine 1.3 million vessels annually by the year 2002. This will require 32,500 trained examiners doing an average of 40 vessels a year. Another key component will be a marketing effort to increase the demand for and understanding of Vessel Safety Checks by the recreational boating public.

The Vessel Safety Check Program is an effective, proactive preventative safety program unique to the recreational boating community. It insures that key marine safety equipment is present, is within prescribed functional limits, and is compliant with Federal, State, and local regulations. It provides the examiner an opportunity to discuss with the recreational boater, the purpose of the marine safety equipment, to clarify various Federal, State, and local regulations, to emphasize specific safety procedures and practices, to answer any boating related questions and to encourage additional boater education.